As of this date, a number of church members have trained as tutors and worked with literacy learners. This includes Marion Burkey, Eileen Scamehorn, Larry Oppliger, Tom Willson, Nancy Snell, Helga Mortenson, Dori Ravotas, Roxanne Fry, and Jim Fry. Emily Hazel, Deb Lindstrom, and Dori Ravotas have also trained to be temporary tutors with learners who are using a computer test preparation program. The center has also sponsored some educational programs for everyone. These programs were on nutrition (Emily Hazel), children’s health, and the upcoming senior health seminar.

We have more opportunities going forward! In addition to regular tutoring we want to expand our Expressways computer program which prepares students for the SAT and the Accuplace now used by KVCC. Commitment is only 10 weeks and we need those who can explain math and/or reading and writing. I have also worked with the Kalamazoo Literacy Council to develop materials that teach about important health concerns while at the same time teaching reading. We will be looking for people who are willing to meet for three or four sessions with students who don’t have a trained tutor yet. Finally, we are also planning a summer health class at our church that will offer this focused type of literacy training to ESL students and possibly GED students. These programs close down in the summer and this would help prevent the summer slide and focus their learning on information everybody should know. No health background needed but we need people willing to help. All materials are supplied for all of the above. For more information call Dori; 269-870-5282